Knee injury ends Daniels’ season

Bournemouth defender Charlie Daniels is set to undergo knee surgery and will miss the rest of the season. The 32-year-old left-back was stretchered off during last weekend’s 3-1 defeat to Manchester City after falling awkwardly while attempting to cross during the first half at the Vitality Stadium.

It is the second serious knee injury the former Tottenham youngster has suffered over recent times, as he was ruled out of the final few months of last season after falling victim to a similar problem in March.

Indeed, Sunday’s loss to City was just Daniels’ second competitive start since returning from his previous lay-off. Speaking after Sunday’s games, Cherries boss Eddie Howe stated that he thought Daniels had dislocated his knee cap and, although he has not elaborated further on the problem, he confirmed on Thursday that the long-serving defender is likely to miss the rest of the season.

In a statement, Howe said: “We are devastated for Charlie, who had worked so hard to come back from his previous knee injury on his left knee in the second half of last season.

“Our worst fears were confirmed following scans this week. “He will receive the best possible treatment and rehabilitation while he goes through this process, as well as the love and support of everyone here at the club.”

The prolonged absence of Daniels is a blow to Bournemouth, who have picked up four points from their opening three matches of the new campaign.

The Cherries are next in action when they travel to the King Power Stadium to take on Leicester in the Premier League on Saturday and they are priced at 4.75 to win that match, while the Foxes are available at 1.73 and the draw is on offer at 4.00.